Special Agent Richard Kelly, Illinois Central Railroad Police Department, Railroad Police

Special Agent Richard Kelly

Illinois Central Railroad Police Department, Railroad Police

End of Watch Thursday, May 30, 1935

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Richard Kelly

Special Agent Richard Kelly was shot and killed in the Illinois Central Railroad yards in Paducah, Kentucky, while searching a train for thieves.

He had observed a rope hanging over a boxcar that had entered the yards. He and two railroad workers opened the locked boxcar to inspect it but were surprised by several people inside. One of the occupants opened fire with a .45 caliber handgun, striking Special Agent Kelly in the chest. All of the subjects then fled the area on foot.

Investigators believed at the time that the men had entered the boxcar in another city to steal liquor but became trapped inside when the train suddenly moved and engaged an automatic lock on the door. It is not known if the suspects were ever apprehended.

Special Agent Kelly had previously served with the Paducah Police Department. He was survived by his wife, infant daughter, parents, and two brothers.

Bio

Age 31
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Location Kentucky
Weapon Handgun; .45 caliber
Offender Not available

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Most Recent Reflection

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Agent Richard Kelly was my mother's uncle. I was named Richard in his honor. The shooters were tracked to Texas and returned to Paducah for trial, then executed by electric chair.

Rest in peace for your service to others, Richard Kelly. Your family has kept your memory alive!

Richard T

November 11, 2025